Phillies Acquire Jesús Luzardo from Marlins

Jesus, I like him very much, but he no help with curveball.

It’s not direct Cubs news, but this felt worthwhile given their strong connection to Jesús Luzardo before talks fell off a few days ago. Reports had the Marlins asking for a package including either James Triantos or Owen Caissie, both of which may have been a no-go for the injury-plagued lefty. The Phillies had no qualms parting with two of their top-30 prospects, sending A-ball shortstop Starlyn Caba (No. 4 in system, 81 overall) and High-A outfielder Emaarion Boyd (No. 23) to Miami.

I don’t know much about either of these players because I’m not a big prospect pervert outside of knowing a little about the Cubs system, but I understand Caba is a legit shortstop with strong upside. The Phillies were probably willing to part with him because they’ve got Trea Turner under contract for nine more years. The Cubs had obviously already pivoted from Luzardo, so now it’s just a matter of where they turn to add pitching.